Farm Bill 2025—What’s Next for U.S. Agriculture? 

After two extensions, it’s looking like the 2025 farm bill can is going to be kicked down the road once again. 

The 2025 Farm Bill debate comes in the wake of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA), a sweeping reconciliation package that addressed nearly 80 percent of farm bill-related provisions. While OBBBA covered major areas such as commodity programs, crop insurance, tax policy, and more, it still left important issues unresolved. 

The current farm bill officially expired on September 30, 2025, meaning producers now face greater policy uncertainty. Keep reading to learn more about the issues still on the table, the hurdles ahead, and steps farmers can take to focus on what they can control in the face of political confusion. 

Why the 2025 Farm Bill Matters 

The farm bill has always been the backbone of U.S. agricultural policy, touching nearly every aspect of rural life. From risk management to research, it provides essential tools for American agriculture to stay at the forefront of global food production.  

The OBBBA addressed many core provisions but left several critical areas unresolved (discussed further below). Without clarity on these details, it can be difficult for producers to make operational and financial decisions. 

The Political Landscape of the 2025 Farm Bill Debate 

Passing a farm bill is never easy, but the partisan divide in 2025 is making it exceptionally challenging to reach the finish line. Because GOP leaders advanced the OBBBA through reconciliation with deep cuts to SNAP despite vocal Democrat opposition, the appetite for bipartisan cooperation is at an all-time low.  

According to American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall, the main obstacle now is mending the bipartisan farm bill coalition. 

“I think the big problem right now is getting over some of the hurt feelings we have because Democrats felt like they got left out of it.” – Zippy Duvall, American Farm Bureau Federeation 

The congressional calendar isn’t helping matters. Lawmakers face a crowded schedule of nominations, budget negotiations, and week-long recesses through the fall. Representative Mike Flood of Nebraska noted that government funding deadlines may overshadow farm bill talks. 

“If we end up in a protracted, long government funding fight where there’s a shutdown, I’m not very hopeful for the future of a farm bill.” – Mike Flood, Nebraska Representative 

Unfortunately, many economists agree with this sentiment, warning that another extension of the 2018 farm bill—or even a reversion to “permanent law”—may be unavoidable. 

What Could Be Included in the 2025 Farm Bill 

While the path forward remains uncertain, the key issues expected to be addressed within the next farm bill are more predictable. This includes:  

• Farm labor reform: Addressing AEWR wage pressures that drive up costs and reduce competitiveness. 
• Disaster assistance: Assessing the need for ad hoc payments or exploring more permanent frameworks. 
• Conservation and land use: CRP reauthorization and provisions for long-term commodity triggers. 
• Farm credit and loan programs: Updating limits on USDA direct and guaranteed loans. 
• Specialty crops: Expanding crop insurance access and increasing research funding. 
• Regulatory issues: Addressing regulatory concerns around Prop 12 compliance, hemp, and pesticide liability. 
• Rural development: Investments in broadband and infrastructure development.  

How Farmers Can Prepare for 2025 Farm Bill Uncertainty 

While the farm bill debate continues in Washington, and its future outside the scope of the farmer’s control, producers can still take steps now to safeguard their operations. 

• Plan proactively: Factor in potential changes to labor, disaster aid, and loan programs when making business decisions.  
• Stay engaged: Follow farm bill developments through trusted ag media and industry groups. 
• Be vocal: Participate in farm organizations advocating for comprehensive policy solutions. 
• Strengthen financial resilience: Work with your lender to ensure your operation is positioned to withstand market and policy volatility. 

Preparing for the Future of U.S. Farm Policy 

The 2025 Farm Bill debate will help define the next chapter of American agriculture. While political hurdles could push final passage into 2026, the issues under discussion are already shaping the decisions farmers must make today. 

At AgAmerica, we understand the weight of this uncertainty. We’re here to help producers navigate policy shifts with flexible financing strategies and insights that keep operations resilient. 

Reach out to AgAmerica to discuss custom financing strategies that align with the evolving farm policy environment.